Tackling Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Sub-Saharan Africa
With the expertise of our staff on humanitarian-centered projects, Prime Health Consultants (PHC) targets infectious diseases that primarily affect populations living in poverty, without adequate sanitation, and in remote areas. We aim to reduce the impact of these diseases, which can have devastating consequences on individuals, communities, and economies.
Neglected Tropical Diseases
Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a major public health concern in Sub-Saharan Africa, where they affect over 600 million people, including millions of children. According to a recent report by UNICEF, more than 40% of the global burden of NTDs is concentrated in this region, where poverty, lack of clean water, and inadequate sanitation create the perfect breeding grounds for these diseases.
UNICEF emphasizes that “NTDs are both a cause and consequence of poverty, perpetuating cycles of inequity and social exclusion”. In Sub-Saharan Africa, these diseases disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations, hindering economic development and exacerbating health inequalities.
PHC's Commitment to Combatting NTDs
PHC offers a range of services to help address these challenges. Our team is equipped to handle vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, lymphatic filariasis, and onchocerciasis, which are prevalent in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. We are also well-versed in addressing neglected zoonotic diseases such as rabies, and other neglected diseases like trachoma, schistosomiasis, leprosy, and yaws.
Our services in epidemiological assessment and surveillance, as well as program development and implementation, are crucial in the fight against NTDs. PHC collaborates with local and international NGOs to implement evidence-based interventions that target the root causes of these diseases.
For example, through partnership with UNICEF and other organizations, PHC has supported mass drug administration programs that have reached millions of people in rural areas, significantly reducing the prevalence of diseases like lymphatic filariasis and trachoma. A recent NGO report highlighted that “community-based interventions, supported by PHC, have reduced the incidence of trachoma by over 60% in some regions of Sub-Saharan Africa”.
Looking Ahead
The fight against NTDs in Sub-Saharan Africa is far from over. Continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, sanitation, and community education is essential to sustaining the gains made so far. PHC remains committed to working alongside governments, NGOs, and communities to eradicate these diseases and improve the quality of life for millions of people across the region.
Our services in epidemiological assessment and surveillance and program development and implementation also come in handy.